Our tutors have got together and come up with their 5 top tips for doing business in France. Have a read and see if you’ve got what it takes to do business there.

Always display correct etiquette and excellent manners. French business behaviour emphasizes courtesy and a degree of formality.So, it is important to maintain good posture - don’t slouch; dress well for all meetings; don’t chew gum etc.Trust will be earned by your proper behaviour.

Don’t address people by their first names.First names are reserved for family and close friends. Wait until invited before using someone’s first name or the ‘tu’ form.

Avoid confrontational behaviour or high-pressure tactics.While discussions may be heated and intense use debating skills rather than argumentative skills to demonstrate your grasp of the situation.

Learn to speak some French – even a few key phrases can be useful since it demonstrates an interest in a long-term business relationship.

Do you have any tips that you have found useful? Share them with the VLLC community.